Popularly known for its white-sand beaches and clear blue waters, Amami Oshima is one of Japan’s most favorite tropical island getaway.

Beyond snorkeling and sun-bathing, the island is also an impressive oasis with an array of nature-sites that you shouldn’t miss out on! Here are 3 of our favorite Amami destinations when visiting the island. 

Fawn over Flora and Fauna at Kinsakubaru Primaeval Forest

(Photo by @amamian2)

The Kinsakubaru Primaeval forest is home to some of Amami Oshima’s most distinctive and glorious flora and fauna, including the islands “National Natural Monuments” such as the giant “Hikaegohego” or Flying Spider-Monkey Tree Ferns. Wonder at the greatness of nature deep within the forest where you’ll feel as though you’ve been taken back to the Jurassic period, a time where everything was thriving and full of life. Due to the forest’s recent status as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, visitors are only allowed to visit with a licensed guide. ⁠

So, don’t forget to schedule a tour before your arrival! ⁠

Come Chase Waterfalls at Materiya Falls

Aside from sandy beaches and salty waters, there are also gorgeous waterfalls to chase on Amami island. ⁣ The beauty of the island begins at the waterfalls, which flows through the rivers, passing through the forests and making its way to the beaches. This acts as a natural filtration system that allows for the island to become a sanctuary to the local habitat. This phenomenon helps you realize how each part of the island serves a role in making Amami Oshima a natural wonder. 

One of our favorite waterfalls is Materiya Falls, which translates to “the basin of the genuinely beautiful sun”. What this waterfall lacks in height, makes up for in its surrounding lush greenery and its crystal clear basin which catches natural sunlight perfectly – making it the ideal spot for a calming midday swim.⁣ Make sure to take a bath in the waterfalls during your next visit to the island. 

Uncover the Wonders of Amami at Amami Oshima World Heritage Conservation Center

Located south west of Miru Amami is the Amami Oshima World Heritage Conservation Center, which celebrated its opening earlier this summer. 

This conservation center is a free facility that provides information on the origins of Amami Oshima and the reasons why the island was registered as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site back in 2021. You can read all about the history of Amami while learning about a number of rare animals that inhabit the island on display every 15-minutes . Fun activities like sightseeing in the Kuroshio Mangrove Park or even canoeing and kayaking are all available nearby.

One of our favorite activities to do is to kayak through the dense mangroves of Sumiyo-cho, Nase city where you can soak in the atmosphere and observe endemic wildlife and plants from the water. Two popular local plants which grow in Amami’s mangroves are the Bruguiera Gymnorhiza and Kandelia Obovata.⁠

A haven of sand, sea and ancient forest, Amami Oshima is a nature sanctuary that invites all people to look beyond and within with new eyes. 

Home to world-renowned forests with lush evergreen trees and unique wildlife, Amami Oshima is a dreamy island-getaway for nature lovers of all ages. Wonder at nature’s diverse beauty that you can only experience here at Amami Oshima.

Follow @miruamami for more insider recommendations and travel advice on the Amami Archipelago.